Sending a child on a flight alone is never a decision taken lightly. Whether it's to visit relatives, attend summer camp, or reunite with a parent in another city, the emotional and logistical stakes are high. Parents need assurance that every mile of their child’s journey will be safe, guided, and comfortable.
Delta Airlines understands that trust is paramount. With a structured Unaccompanied Minor program, it offers parents peace of mind and children the confidence to travel solo—with assistance at every turn. For questions or bookings, Delta’s dedicated line is available at 877-297-0699.
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What Is Delta’s Unaccompanied Minor Service?
Delta’s Unaccompanied Minor (UMNR) service is designed specifically for children traveling alone, offering supervision from check-in to arrival. From personal escorts through the airport to real-time updates for parents, this service ensures a safe and positive flight experience for every child.
An “unaccompanied minor” is defined by Delta as a child between the ages of 5 and 14 who is flying without a parent, legal guardian, or designated adult. Children over 15 may travel alone without this service but can still opt in for additional support if needed.
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Age Requirements for Delta’s Unaccompanied Minor Policy
Delta’s UMNR service is mandatory for children aged 5 to 14 flying without an accompanying adult who is at least 18 years old. For these ages, the service is required on both domestic and international flights.
Ages 5–7: Only permitted to travel on nonstop flights.
Ages 8–14: May travel on both nonstop and connecting flights under supervision.
Ages 15–17: The service is optional but available for a fee.
Each age group has unique guidelines to ensure travel is age-appropriate and secure. This clear structure offers comfort and clarity for families managing solo travel logistics.
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How Much Does Delta Charge for Unaccompanied Minor Service?
Delta’s current fee for its Unaccompanied Minor service is $150 each way. This fee covers up to four children traveling together on the same reservation. It is applied per direction, regardless of whether the flight is nonstop or includes connections.
Domestic Flights: $150 per direction
International Flights: Also $150 per direction, with additional documentation requirements
This fee is paid in addition to the cost of the flight ticket and can be settled at the time of booking or during check-in. For fare-specific inquiries, contact Delta Customer Support at 877-297-0699.
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What’s Included in the Unaccompanied Minor Fee?
The fee includes a suite of services that extend far beyond basic supervision:
Personalized assistance from Delta staff from check-in to gate
Escort through the airport to and from the aircraft
In-flight monitoring by trained flight attendants
Access to Delta’s Sky Zone areas at select hubs (Atlanta, Cincinnati, Detroit, New York-JFK, and Salt Lake City)
Priority boarding and baggage assistance
Children also receive a travel wristband, a lanyard to hold essential documents, and age-appropriate snacks or meals depending on flight duration.
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Booking a Flight for an Unaccompanied Minor
Booking a UMNR ticket can’t be completed online. Parents must call Delta Reservations to ensure all special service requirements are handled correctly.
Here’s how to book:
1. Call 877-297-0699 to speak with a representative.
2. Provide travel dates, destination, and child’s age.
3. Add the UMNR service and pay the $150 fee.
4. Supply full contact information for guardians at both ends of the journey.
5. Receive a confirmation email with a detailed checklist.
It’s also possible to add the service to an existing child’s booking by calling the same number.
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Check-In and Airport Procedures for Unaccompanied Minors
On the day of travel, the accompanying adult must:
Arrive early—at least 2 hours before departure.
Bring a valid government-issued ID.
Present a signed UMNR form (provided by Delta).
Obtain a gate pass to escort the child through security and to the departure gate.
At arrival, the designated pickup adult must also present a valid ID and sign for the minor. Delta will not release the child to anyone not listed on the form.
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In-Flight Experience for Unaccompanied Minors
Delta flight attendants are briefed in advance about each unaccompanied minor onboard. During the flight, children are seated in designated areas for easy supervision.
They’ll receive:
Frequent check-ins by the crew
Complimentary snacks or meals (depending on flight length)
Access to seatback entertainment or SkyKids-approved content
Friendly introductions from staff to ease travel nerves
Comfort and safety are prioritized from takeoff to touchdown.
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Who Can Drop Off and Pick Up an Unaccompanied Minor?
Only adults listed on the minor's travel documentation can drop off or pick up the child. Delta requires:
Government-issued photo ID
Contact information and signature verification at both departure and arrival
Presence at the airport at least 45 minutes prior to scheduled arrival to avoid delays
If the pickup adult changes, Delta must be notified and updated documentation submitted before release.
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Connecting Flights and Layovers: What Parents Should Know
Delta allows unaccompanied minors aged 8–14 to travel on select connecting flights, but never on:
The last flight of the day
Red-eye flights (10 PM to 5 AM)
Flights involving other airlines or code-share partners
During layovers, children are escorted to Delta Sky Zones or kept in a secure waiting area with staff supervision.
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Delta’s Sky Zone Lounges for Unaccompanied Minors
Delta has created dedicated spaces just for young solo travelers at select major hubs. These Sky Zones are:
Staffed with trained child-care representatives
Stocked with games, books, snacks, and kid-friendly entertainment
Access-restricted to ensure safety and comfort
Locations include ATL, JFK, DTW, CVG, and SLC, where many connecting flights route.
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International Travel for Unaccompanied Minors
Traveling abroad? Parents should be aware of extra steps:
Some countries require notarized parental consent forms
A valid passport and visa (if applicable) are mandatory
Additional copies of birth certificates may be required
Delta can help guide you through these rules based on the specific route. Always verify entry requirements with the destination’s consulate.
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How Delta Ensures Security and Peace of Mind
Delta’s UMNR program includes continuous updates and transparency. If there’s a delay or irregular operation, the airline notifies both the drop-off and pickup guardians immediately.
Should rebooking become necessary:
A Delta representative stays with the child at all times
Alternate arrangements are made promptly
Overnight accommodations are handled if needed (with guardian approval)
Parents remain informed at each step to reduce worry and confusion.
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Tips for Parents Preparing a Child for Solo Air Travel
Preparation can ease anxiety for both parents and children:
Pack essentials like books, a comfort item, snacks, and a water bottle
Explain the journey clearly, including who will pick them up
Practice airport etiquette and introduce the idea of following adult directions
Empowering your child with knowledge builds travel confidence.
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How Delta’s Policy Compares to Other Major Airlines
Here’s how Delta stacks up:
AirlineFee (Each Way)Lounge AccessConnecting Flights
Delta$150 (up to 4 kids)Yes (select airports)Yes (age 8–14)
American$150 (up to 2 kids)NoYes
United$150 (per child)NoNo connections allowed
Southwest$100 (per child)NoNonstop only
JetBlue$150 (per child)NoNonstop only
Delta’s inclusion of multiple children under one fee, Sky Zone lounges, and connecting flight allowance gives it a strong edge in family-friendliness and value.
